Rolling mountains and windswept coastal bluffs come face-to-face with miles of narrow beaches and crashing waves. Seemingly a land forgotten, this scenic coastal playground provides an endless expanse perfect for wandering, soul-searching and other romantic pursuits. Located along the coastal bluffs south of the Eel River, a short drive just south of Eureka and six easy miles west of Ferndale sits some of the most beautiful and memorable beaches, grasslands and scattered patches of forest.

Entering Ferndale is like taking a step back in time to the bygone era of Victorian Villages. Whether you’ve been here for five hours or five generations, the hospitality of the locals and the serene surroundings will take your breath away. Marvel at the beautifully preserved homes along with the rows of general stores, ice cream parlors, blacksmith shops, saloons, museums, excellent dining and nostalgically new lodging establishments.

The Ferndale Historic Cemetery offers a quiet glimpse into local life – both past and present. Two blocks from Main Street, the cemetery, which was founded in 1868, sprawls up a redwood capped hill behind the Old Steeple, a Victorian church turned beloved music venue. There are several mausoleums and rows of unique headstones, obelisks and memorial statuary – an impressive scene for tombstone tourists. A contemplative stroll to the top of the cemetery ends in gorgeous panoramic views of Ferndale and the Eel River Valley below.

Open daily 9-6

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and Sandstone Cliffs is the majestic Centerville Beach. On this nine-mile secluded and tranquil white sand beach, you can watch when the whales migrate in April and May with their young. The best viewing point for whale watching is at the bluffs South of the beach. Centerville Beach is the perfect spot to have a picnic, walk your dog, ride horses along the beach, build a bonfire, collect seashells or just take in the stunning beauty of the Northern California coastline.

Hike through the closed canopies of Sitka Spruces on the Russ Park trail inside the Ferndale bird sanctuary. The park is only open from sunrise to sunset. Experience beautiful views of the town of Ferndale as well as Zipporah pond and Eel Valley. There are four trails through the park: Lytel Ride, Francis Creek, Village Trail and Skunk Cabbage.

Walk through history like one only can in Ferndale. This is a historical and educational museum that brings the community an appreciation and understanding of the culture and heritage of Ferndale, the Eel River and Mattole Valleys. The museum publishes a magazine, produce original documentary videos, conduct tours of historic houses and businesses, stage photography exhibits, publish original biographies and historic cookbooks, and maintain a constantly enriched and varied collection. The museum’s collections include a working seismograph, player piano, active blacksmith shop, and a vast display of artifacts that pertain to or were used by our forebears. It also assists members in genealogical research, welcomes visitors and new friends, and provides information on the two town cemeteries.